United News of Bangladesh

European Union (EU) Ambassador to Bangladesh Michael Miller on Thursday said the clean energy transition is about people - their access to reliable power and their access to economic opportunities. "This campaign should make us think about how we can all work to build a sustainable future for individuals and communities in Bangladesh," he said. The European Union (EU) and renowned Bangladeshi hip-hop artist Critical Mahmood launched the "I’ve Got the Power" campaign. Giving voice to a clean energy future for Bangladesh. Critical Mahmood and the European Union collaborated on a new track “I’VE GOT THE POWER.” This campaign celebrates the strong partnership between Bangladesh and the EU for a greener, sustainable future - for all. The campaign focuses on the transformative impact of EU-supported initiatives in Bangladesh that provide renewable solutions for individuals and local communities. Critical Mahmood’s track, I’ve Got the Power, is the inspirational anthem of the campaign, highlighting the potential of clean energy to improve lives and encouraging them to adapt. Critical Mahmood said, “As an artist, it is my passion to support positive change with an impact on real people. Renewable energy is crucial for the future prosperity of Bangladesh and I’m proud to lend my voice to inspire change and contribute to a larger mission in collaboration with the European Union.” Italy, Albania, and the UAE sign clean energy deal The EU’s Global Gateway initiative underpins the campaign, and is exemplified by projects like the Bangladesh Renewable Energy Facility, which aims to install approximately 750 MW of renewable energy capacity, primarily through utility-scale solar photovoltaic and onshore wind projects, alongside battery storage systems, according to the EU Embassy Dhaka The EU-Bangladesh partnership empowers individuals like Selim, a Kaligonj-based e-rickshaw driver who relies on electricity to power the lithium battery for his vehicle. This enables him to navigate the city efficiently, providing a stable income for his family. Nusrat, a rising cricket star, is able to hone her cricket skills day and night, thanks to the renewable energy that illuminates her training facilities. Their stories illustrate how the Global Gateway initiative has a direct positive impact on individuals and small businesses. Critical Mahmood is a Bangladeshi hip-hop artist known for blending traditional Bengali sounds with modern hip-hop beats. Empowering Bangladesh with clean energy today means a brighter, sustainable future for generations to come: Peter Haas He is known for his socially conscious music lyrics and, most recently, for his involvement in the "I’ve Got the Power" campaign, reflecting his commitment to having a positive impact on society and the environment.

Appreciating Bangladesh’s adaptation and resilience, COP26 President-Designate Alok Sharma on Wednesday pledged to help Bangladesh having a “clean energy transition”. “We can work together to make sure that it is not just the public finance but also private finance that is coming into Bangladesh,” he told reporters in a joint media briefing at Foreign Service Academy. Responding to a question, Sharma said he discussed the coal power issue during his meeting with Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen noting that he raised the issue not just in Bangladesh but around the world. Read:We expect UK to promote interests of climate vulnerable countries: Hasina He laid emphasis on alternative sources of energy – clean energy – if the dependency on coal power is cut globally. To supplement, Foreign Minister Dr Momen said they are scaling down some of the coal power industries as part of reducing dependency on coal power. “We planned to have around 40 percent renewable energy by 2041. We’ll be looking for more renewable energy and we’re asking for technology to support renewable energy,” he said. Bangladesh is among the fast growing economies with significant renewable energy potential, said the UK government. Responding to a question on US$ 100 billion climate fund for developing countries, Sharma said the donor and developed countries need to step up noting that it is a matter of trust and it is very important they deliver on it. He appreciated Bangladesh’s leadership in terms of adaptation and resilience saying they saw a very limited damage during recent cyclones due to Bangladesh’s works done to that front. Sharma expressed satisfaction over private sector’s interest towards clean energy transition but they want long-term policy and clear regulations from all governments around the world. Read: COP26: Alok Sharma discusses climate issues with FM On the Sundarbans, he said they want to see further protection given to areas such as mangroves. “I am looking forward to the visit tomorrow (Thursday) there.” Dr Momen said they want to save the planet. “We’re capable of doing it if there’s strong partnership and collaboration.”